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Vanuatu
About Vanuatu
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Vanuatu is the land of so much to see and so much to do, with a reputation for interesting, fun and educational activities to suit any traveler. From treks and abseiling to deserted beach picnics, wreck dive explorations to Cultural villages, Vanuatu always has something to offer for those looking to experience something new.
Size
Vanuatu is an archipelago of 83 islands spread over an area of 332,046 square miles. Of all the 83 islands, the most visited by travelers are Efate and Espiritu Santo. Population is approximately 200,000.
History
Many of the islands of Vanuatu have been inhabited for thousands of years, the oldest archaeological evidence found dating to 2000 BC.
European Settlement
In 1605, the Portuguese explorer Pedro Fernndez de Quirs became the first European to reach the islands, believing them to be part of Terra Australis. Europeans began settling the islands in the late 18th century, after British explorer James Cook visited the islands on his second voyage, and gave them the name New Hebrides.
In 1887, the islands began to be administered by a French-British naval commission. In 1906, the French and British agreed to an Anglo-French Condominium on the New Hebrides.
During World War II, the islands of Efate and Espiritu Santo were used as allied military bases. In the 1960s, the Ni-Vanuatu people started to press for self-governance and later independence; full sovereignty was finally granted by both European nations on July 30, 1980.
Climate
Tropical, moderated by southeast trade winds from May to October; moderate rainfall from November to April; may be affected by cyclones from December to April.
Geography
Most of the islands are mountainous and of volcanic origin, and have a tropical or sub-tropical climate. The nation’s largest towns are the capital Port Vila, which is situated on Efate, and Luganville, on Espiritu Santo. The highest point in Vanuatu is Mount Tabwemasana, at 6158 feet, on the island of Espiritu Santo. There are several active volcanoes in Vanuatu, including Lopevi as well as several underwater ones.
Time Zones
The islands of Vanuatu are in the same time zone.
Currency
Vatu.
Language
Bislama, English and French. The 115 ‘Mother tongues’ are in common use.
